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Happy New Year!



Wishing all of our friends, family, readers, brands, and PR peeps a year filled with love, happiness, great health and good luck. 

May you be happy and healthy and your troubles be few. May all of God's blessings descend upon you. May peace be within you, may love fill your home. May you find what you're seeking wherever you roam.


New Year Necessities

January's the perfect time to relax, refresh, and renew. We rounded up a few items to help you do just that and included some "must-haves" and even a few items to keep you safe and organized. We invite you to browse the websites below and then enter to win the prize of your choice from our gift closet.


I practically live in yoga pants. Gaiam's new Organic Cotton Bootcut Pants are perfect for everything from working out to shopping, running errands and lounging around the house. Features include a relaxed leg and smooth front for a slimming, leg lengthening look. Made in the USA from 94% organic cotton and 6% spandex. Soft and comfy you'll want to live in them too. $64 at gaiam.com.



Tote your tablet in style while keeping it protected in the Tabee Purse Organizer by Pouchee. A padded interior pocket with snap closure accommodates a kindle, iPad or tablet. Also includes a large interior with three slip pockets for phone, keys, lipgloss, exterior slip pocket and zippered compartment. Lots of fun, fashionable designs to choose from, the Wild Rings pictured here has a cherry red interior. Measures 13.5x12x5". $44 at pouchee.com



This set of three Banana Leaf Baskets in from Honey Can Do. First of all, how cute is that name?! Keep your office, a play room or craft room, neat and organized with these chic and sturdy baskets that look great on a shelf. Great for a dorm or apartment too. The set of 3 retails for $39.99 at HoneyCanDo.com.



Turquoise Solid Colored Pashmina from Scarves.net is a fashion must have at this time of year. Can be worn as a scarf or shawl. Available in a spectrum of bright and beautiful colors to suit every mood. 68"L x 29"W, $12.95 at scarves.net.

Manuka Doctor Apinourish Rejuvenating Face Mask is a luxurious cream mask made of Purified Bee Venom, Royal Jelly, Honey, Rosehip and Blackcurrant Oils. I was a little squeamish about trying it when I heard bee venom, but then I remembered what Royal Jelly did for my energy level when I first tried it, and felt better about trying the mask. Glad I did. Skin is left spa-facial-soft and super hydrated.It quickly absorbs into skin and any remaining product can be easily wiped off after 15-30 minutes. It can also be left on overnight for an added moisture boost during dry winter months. A 1.69 oz. jar retails for $84.50 at manukadoctor.com.



Take some of that Christmas cash and treat yourself to a new bra. The Custom Genie Bra can be worn as a conventional bra, halter, crisscross front or back, racerback, one shoulder. Free of underwires and back hooks. Constructed with Genie Bra's Everlast comfort stretch fabric, it conforms to your shape. Available in Black, White or Nude for sizes Sm - 3X. $14.95 at geniebra.com.


Light a candle for good luck in the New Yearl. This turquoise candle by Sage is highly fragrant and poured in a turquoise glass container accented with Sage's logo in matte gold, and comes with a luxuriously embossed keepsake box. A unique combination of blue chamomile, cassis, grapefruit, flowery musk and sandalwood to enliven the senses. The 8-oz. candle has a 60-hour burn time and is GMO-, paraben, sulphate, phathalates-free. $56 at thesagelifestyle.com



Just what the doctor ordered after the busy holidays. Apply Relax Body Lotion by erbaviva after a hot bath and right before bedtime to smooth away the stresses of the day. Made with organic almond oil and a blend of lavender, rose and neroli essential oils to help calm, restore and relax. It has a lovely light scent, is non-greasy and hydrating. A 6-fl. oz. pump bottle retails for $18 at erbaviva.com.



Start the year off with a grateful heart with Compendium's A Year of Gratitude Kit. Designed to inspire 52 weeks of giving thanks, it includes 52 blank thank you cards and envelopes, and a beautiful journal and a keepsake box. It suggests sending a handwritten card to a different person in your life each week. The more we give thanks, the more we'll have to be thankful for. $29.95 at live-inspired.com.

Stay safe in the snow and ice with Yaktrax Walk. A lightweight and easy to use ice traction device that slips over shoes. Reduces the risk of falling on ice. Available in Black, Clear or Glow for $20 at yaktrax.com


From Capistrano Soap Company's Acequia line, their Natural Castile Hand Soap in Fresco is a definite necessity. The handcrafted soap is made with an olive oil base and all natural ingredients to help soften dry, chapped hands. The sweet scent of almonds is combined with bergamot and freshly ground ginger ~ delightful! A 8.45 fl. oz. pump bottle is $16 at Capistranosoap.com.


For those who prefer bar soap, Whole Foods 85% Organic Triple French Milled Soap in Lemon Verbena is like a breath of sunshine in the morning. A light fresh scent with a great lather. $6.99 at all Whole Foods stores.


If you have a sliding glass door and want extra security, this handy safety bar from Master Lock fits right on the track and prevents the sliding door from opening. Also can be used with hinged doors when placed under the doorknob. Made of 20 gauge steel construction with a padded foot for a sure grip without scratching. SRP: $25.70. A store locator can be found at masterlock.com.



And for the guys, Gillette's Fusion ProGlide Styler 3-in-1 Body Groomer with Beard Trimmer has thin, fine blades for a close comfortable shave. The power trimmer is water tight and three exchangeable combs adapt to contours. Trim, Shave, or Edge in or out of the shower. Suggested retail is $19.99. Available at mass drug, grocery, and retails stores.




Chic Giveaway! ~ One lucky reader will win the prize of their choice from our gift closet

To Enter: email chicluxuries@nc.rr.com and include the following:

  • "New Year Necessities" in the subject line
  • your first and last name
  • complete mailing address
  • twitter id 
  • facebook name 
    If you're entering our giveaways, we ask that you like/follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest 

    Contest ends 11:59 PM ET February 28, 2014. Limit one entry per person and email address. Winner will be notified by email and announced on our Winner's page. Winner will have 48 hours to claim prize. Open to US Residents 18 years of age and older.

    Many thanks to each of the brands featured for providing products and/or photos for this editorial. 



    Merry Christmas to All

    Before we close for the holidays, we wanted to wish everyone a warm and snuggly Christmas. xox




    Favorite Things Winter Edition

    Our most popular feature is back and overflowing with chic luxuries from our favorite brands, both old and new. We think this edition of Favorite Things is our best yet so take some time to visit each website. You're sure to find something you adore and don't miss the chance to win a goodie box filled with chic luxuries.


    When you start planning parties around your tabletop accessories, you know you have an obsession. We remain completely in awe of Beatriz Ball. One design is more breathtaking than the next and the fact that the pieces are handcrafted and need no polishing, makes them even more irresistible. The Organic Pearl Nova Square Medium Platter has so many uses, it's too pretty to use only for entertaining. Create a centerpiece by placing a candle in a hurricane set on the tray and surround with glass votives and enjoy the reflection of light off the stunning tray everyday. Measures 14-3/4x14-3/4". $126 at beatrizball.com.



    Another company that has blown us away is Misikko. Their HANAair Hair Dryer is small but mighty. In fact, it's the most powerful blow dryer I've ever used and, trust me, with my unruly hair, I've tried them all. It also comes with more fun surprise gifts with purchase than we have ever seen, and each is wrapped up in pretty bow or silk pouch. The HANA Premier Hair Dryer Gift Package is on sale as of this writing for $199.99 with free shipping at Misikko.com.


    We think the Sandanona Wax Cloth Jacket from Orvis will be every outdoorsman's favorite piece of outerwear. Designed for cool damp conditions, it's water resistant to keep him warm, dry and comfortable. We love the look and feel of the wax cloth material, the soft plaid brushed twill lining and the corduroy collar accent. Featuring underarm gussets for increased range of motion, a detachable hood, and a center front placket which snaps over the zipper to keep rain and wind out. Loaded with pockets including two upper handwarmer pockets, two cargo pockets, and three interior pockets ~ a zip close, a snap close and a larger pocket that can hold a hat or gloves. An interior zip system can accommodate the Sandanona Quilted Vest {sold separately}. Available in Navy or Olive in sizes Medium - XXL for $325 at orvis.com.


    Ah, another company on my radar to invest in if they ever go public. Say bye-bye to those pesky dark unwanted hairs forever in the comfort and convenience of your own home with the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X. It's the first FDA-cleared at-home laser and best of all, it's painless! The device targets and disables black or brown hair follicles for removal on white, ivory, beige, or light brown skin tones. 90-day money back guarantee. $449 at triabeauty.com.



    They don't call these Miraclebody Jeans for nothing! They are THE most comfortable, slimming jeans EVER made and I LOVE LOVE LOVE them. The Stevie Denim Jeggings are soft, non-bulky, have a bit of stretch, and a relaxed fit. The elimination of pockets, zipper and belt loops creates smooth lines and slenderizes legs, tummy and backside. {Thank you, Miraclebody!} The onyx bootcut jeggings make legs look longer and lift the backside. The result is an ultra chic, dressier, more feminine pair of jeans. I will definitely be ordering the Stevie Sanded Jeggings in Woodbridge {blue} as well. If you have a little bulge here or there, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised how flattering these are. In sizes 2-16 with a 31" inseam. $84 at miraclebody.com.




    Whether you are at the ski lodge or out for a walk in the park, all eyes will be on your cute self in Spyder's Soiree Core Sweater. The medium weight knit rib anti-pilling and fleece-backing sweater has a snowflake insert and concealed zippered pockets. The faux coyote and silver fox trimmed hood adds the finishing touch of chicness. Fits true to size, XS to XL. Available in Black, White or Red for $199 at Spyder.com

    Don't you just love these boots? Whether in the city or country, you'll look oh-so-chic in the Nessie Boots from Sole Society. Features include low stacked heel, buckles and lace and side zipper. Be ready for cuteness overload when you pair them with the jeggings and sweater above, or a cute skirt. Available in Dark Camel {pictured}, Black and Rhine Gray in sizes 5-11 for $69.95. Sign up for their email and save 20% off your first purchase solesociety.com.



    The Czech Holiday Cookie from Be The Light New York is an intoxicating blend of cedarwood, cinnamon, clove, lemon, patchouli and vanilla. The company was founded by Supermodel and Philanthropist, Petra Nemcova. Each 16-oz. luxury candle in the collection is inspired by a different part of the globe that Petra has traveled to and designed to capture the essence, scent and beauty of the country. The Czech Holiday Cookie invokes memories of baking cookies with the family...and the warm scent is incredibly delicious. Exquisitely gift boxed, the 3-wick candle is handcrafted in the US and retails for $98. Join Petra as she lights the way for us to discover the beauty around the globe bethelightny.com


    Guys, girls, men, women, teens, whether in-shape or looking to lose a few lbs., EVERYONE will LOVE the Fitbug Orb. It tracks your every move and with your own personal coach cheering you on, you will sleep better, eat better and move more. Wear it any way you like on your wrist, hidden, on your belt. We love everything about this little orb, even their website is way cool. $49.95 at fitbug.com



    We were recently introduced to Antica Farmacista, a luxury fragrance company, and tried their delightful Grapefruit Hand Wash. Something tells me you'll be seeing them more often around here! Made with silk amino acids, almond oil, chamomile and honey, it moisturizes while cleansing and leaves hands with a fresh citrus scent. A lovely hand soap for the kitchen or powder room, it packs a burst of sunshine in every pump. A pretty 10-oz. bottle retails for $25 at anticafarmacista.com

    You don't have to worry about staying warm with the Women's Maple Togue from Canada Goose. The cable-knit hat has a fleece lining is adorably chic on or off the slopes. Scooped ear flaps provide extra warmth while a pom-pom adds a finishing touch. We like the aurora green color...just too cute! MSRP: $80 canada-goose.com.



    Finding a wire-free bra that supports, is comfortable and looks smooth under shirts is not an easy task, but we found one! Vanity Fair's Body Caress Beauty Back Wirefree Bra also minimizes back bulge and can be worn traditional or criss cross. Very lightly padded and oh-so-soft. Available in Star White, Black, Damask Neutral, and Ivory...you'll want one in every color. SRP $36 at department stores nationwide. A store locator can be found at vanityfairlingerie.com.

    We've been on the prowl for the world's best mascara for quite some time. We just may have found it in Outrageous Lashes Mineral Lengthening Mascara by YoungBlood Mineral Cosmetics. It dramatically lengthens lashes, doesn't flake, smudge, smear, or run. The conditioning formula makes my lashes feel stronger and healthier. Can't wait to try it with the Mineral Lash Prime for even more dramatic results. $26 at ybskin.com.

    Last but not least is the Dinner of the Month Club from Amazing Clubs. We received this together with the Olive Oil of the Month Club, recently featured. The Grisinni pictured here was included with the Olive Oil Club and a jar of Mario's Sweet Garden Dressing and Marinade came with the dinner club. We mixed in some of Mario's marinade with the olive oil which made an out-of-this world dipping sauce and paired perfectly with the Grisinni. The pasta and sauce were also delicious and highly flavorful. It's so much fun trying different varieties of pasta and sauce each month. If you're looking for an extra-special gift or treat for yourself, consider ordering both clubs as they are a perfect compliment to each other. A 3-month subscription to the Dinner Club is $23.95 per month AmazingClubs.com.


    Chic Giveaway! ~ One lucky reader will win a goodie box filled with chic luxuries and valued at approximately $500.00!!!!

    To Enter: email chicgiveaway@gmail.com and include the following:
    • "Favorite Things" in the subject line
    • your first and last name
    • complete mailing address
    • twitter id 
    • facebook name 
      If you're entering our giveaways, we ask that you follow us on FacebookTwitter and Pinterest 

      If you wish to tweet about this giveaway, sample tweet:
      #Win a $500 goodie box in @ChicLuxuries #FavoriteThings Winter Edition ow.ly/sHmgS

      Contest ends 11:59 PM ET March 5, 2014.  Limit one entry per person and email address. Winner will be notified by email and announced on our Winner's page. Winner will have 48 hours to claim prize. Open to US Residents 18 years of age and older.

      Many thanks to each of the brands featured for providing products and/or photos for this editorial. 





       

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